Even though the 2021 NBA Finals are in full swing, the NBA Draft is quickly approaching. The Atlanta Hawks had a great postseason run, but they still need to add some things this offseason to stay ahead of the course in a tough Eastern Conference.
The following is a complete look at the Atlanta Hawks needs, as we approach the 2021 NBA Draft and Free Agency.
Atlanta Hawks Needs Heading Into the Offseason
Upcoming Atlanta Hawks Free Agents
Here is a list of the players who are upcoming Hawks free agents that will either need to be re-signed or replaced.
- Tony Snell (SF) (UFA)
- Lou Williams (PG/SG) (UFA)
- Solomon Hill (SF) (UFA)
- John Collins (PF) (RFA)
- Brandon Goodwin (PG) (RFA)
- Skylar Mays (PG) (RFA)
- Nathan Knight (C) (RFA)
- Kris Dunn (PG) (Player-Option)
Priority number one for the Hawks this offseason needs to be John Collins. He reportedly turned down a max-contract extension worth over $90 million, which means he’s headed to the open market. Collins is a restricted free agent, meaning the Hawks will have the chance to match any offer Collins receives. However, after a great playoffs, Collins is one of the hottest names in the free agent market. If a team decides to offer Collins a pay bump, the Hawks may not be able to match. Especially considering Trae Young is up for a max extension this offseason as well. The Hawks will have to track Collins very thoroughly.
As for Lou Williams and Solomon Hill, they are both unrestricted free agents. Williams had his moments in Atlanta, but it’s likely another team would be more willing to pay up for him. Hill could likely be brought back on a small deal. Kris Dunn’s player-option is worth $5 million, which he will most certainly pick up.
Atlanta Hawks 2021 NBA Draft Picks
- First Round, 20th Overall
- Second Round, 48th Overall
Atlanta Hawks Draft Targets
Cameron Thomas
Cameron Thomas had an outstanding freshman year at LSU. He averaged 23 points per game and made a big impression on NBA Scouts. The guard out of LSU would add another immediate scoring threat to Atlanta’s second unit. Thomas could also be viewed as a potential replacement for Lou Williams, if he decides to sign elsewhere. Thomas is also only 19 years old, which means he could grow into a potential two-way starter for the Hawks down the line.
Jeremiah Robinson-Earl
Jeremiah Robinson-Earl is an intriguing case out of Villanova. We’ve seen in the past guys like Eric Paschall and Donte DiVencenzo have good first years coming out of Jay Wright’s system. Mikal Bridges has also been a huge player in the Phoenix Suns’ NBA Finals run. He compares favorably to Larry Nance Jr. and Jeff Green. He is could also be looked at as insurance in case John Collins finds a new home. Robinson-Earl averaged 15 points per game last year and also hauled in over eight rebounds per game. He’s a solid post-defender, but may struggle to acclimate to the NBA level.
Jason Preston
Jason Preston’s story is worth reading, if you want to get the full background on the guard from Ohio University. This would be a great player for the Hawks to target with their second round pick. He’s a great playmaker and is crafty around the rim. His shooting was above average in college, but there are signs it could improve with time. While Preston doesn’t have elite speed or athleticism, he’s a steady ball-handler. He was a real triple-double threat each game in college. However, he didn’t really play against elite talent week in and week out. Preston could easily see him sliding in to replace Williams or Hill if they move on.
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